INC Inaugurates High Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei as President, Renews Calls for Unity and Resource Justice
By Staff Reporter
WARRI, Delta State — The Ijaw National Congress (INC) on Thursday officially inaugurated High Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei as its new President during a high-profile ceremony in Warri, bringing together key stakeholders and signaling a new chapter in the organisation’s leadership.
The event attracted traditional rulers, political figures, youth representatives, women groups, community leaders, and delegates from across Nigeria and the diaspora, underscoring the significance of the INC as the apex socio-cultural body of the Ijaw people.
The inauguration formally ended the tenure of outgoing President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, while ushering in a new administration expected to drive the organisation's agenda in the coming years.
In his acceptance speech, High Chief Igbadiwei stressed the need for greater unity among Ijaw people both within Nigeria and across the world.
"The strength of the Ijaw nation lies in our unity. We must rise above divisions and speak with one voice if we are to effectively advance our collective interests and secure a better future for our people," he said.
He further assured stakeholders of his commitment to strengthening the organisation and pursuing policies that would protect the interests of Ijaw communities.
"Our mission remains clear — to defend the rights of our people, promote peace, and champion sustainable development in every Ijaw community," he added.
Speakers at the ceremony also renewed long-standing calls for resource justice, equitable development, and greater inclusion of the Niger Delta in national affairs. They urged the newly inaugurated leadership to maintain strategic engagement with government and corporate stakeholders.
One stakeholder at the event noted, "The wealth extracted from the Niger Delta must translate into visible development and improved living standards for the people whose land produces these resources."
The ceremony concluded with prayers, goodwill messages, and renewed commitments to peace and advocacy.
Participants expressed optimism that the new administration would strengthen the INC’s position as a leading voice for the Ijaw people and provide stronger leadership in advancing unity, development, and the collective aspirations of the Niger Delta region.
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